Passerby finds 13-year-old girl naked, dead in California park

February 6, 2013 7:17:38 PM PST

FAIRFIELD, CA --

Police in California are not disclosing how a 13-year-old girl was murdered, but they said reports that a gray minivan might be involved are inaccurate.

At a news conference this afternoon, police released a statement from the family of Genelle Conway-Allen, whose naked body was found by a passerby in a parking lot on the south side of Allan Witt Park in Fairfield around 6:45 a.m. Friday.

"This has been a devastating tragedy for our family and community. We need to thank everyone for the outpouring of support at the memorial site," the family said.

After thanking police for working hard on the investigation, the family said they are still in a state of shock and asked for privacy.

"Thank you for your love and support during this difficult time," the family said.

Conway-Allen, who lived in a foster home, was last seen during the late afternoon hours on Jan. 31 in the vicinity of Railroad Avenue in Suisun City, Sgt. Matthew Bloesch said.

In what police said was a photo taken minutes before she was last seen, the teen was wearing a gray sweater, blue jean-style leggings and a pink backpack.

Bloesch said police are not releasing information that might hinder the investigation, and that Suisun City and Fairfield police will investigate the homicide "in a professional, consistent and strategic manner" until the suspect or suspects have been identified, located and arrested.

Police also reminded parents to teach children what to do if they are approached or followed and to make every effort to escape and attract attention to themselves.